Yankees: 3 free agents to sign and 1 to avoid this offseason
Yankees free agency rumors: Sign Justin Verlander
Verlander didn’t pitch in 2021 after undergoing Tommy John surgery but it looks as if he’ll be ready to go when Opening Day rolls around. He recently threw in front of scouts from a variety of MLB clubs and, as expected, the Yankees were in attendance.
He won’t be in line for a long-term deal at the age of 39, but that might work in New York’s favor. Cashman and his front office don’t want to commit a ton of long-term money this offseason, but inking Verlander to a lucrative two-year deal might be a great use of resources for the Yankees.
Yankees, Tigers and Rangers among the clubs who saw Verlander throw today. Heard it was a pretty good turnout.
— Britt Ghiroli (@Britt_Ghiroli) November 8, 2021
Similar to the idea with Gausman, the team would be adding Verlander in an effort to give them an elite No. 2 option in the rotation behind Cole. Verlander’s lengthy history of playoff success will only add to his appeal for decision-makers in the Bronx.
Spending big on a pitcher who’s missed most of the last two seasons is risky, but the Yankees are a franchise with the resources required to roll the dice on a guy like Verlander. He may opt to pitch elsewhere, but expect Cashman to make a strong pitch to the veteran righty.